What To Do After a Flood
So your house flooded. And now you have to deal with insurance and property damage and relocation. It’s a lot of mumbo-jumbo and it can get confusing. Before the waters get any more muddied, here are a few key steps you don’t want to skip:
1. Notify Insurance and Document Damage: Contact your insurance provider immediately to start the claims process. Document the flood damage extensively with photographs or videos. Keep records of all communication with your insurer. Your insurance agent should be able to answer any questions you may have about coverage.
2. Protect Property from Further Damage: Take steps to prevent additional damage to your property. This could involve removing water, drying out the area, and initiating temporary repairs to prevent mold or structural issues.
3. Utilities and Services Update: You may want to contact utility companies to suspend services to the flooded property. Your utility and restoration companies can give you more insight.
4. Retrieve Essential Items and Documents: Gather crucial documents like identification, insurance policies, medical records, and any valuables that may have survived the flood. Seek to restore them to the best condition possible and store them in a safe, dry place.
5. Engage Restoration Services: Collaborate with restoration professionals to assess the damage and plan for the restoration process. Understand the required permits and approvals for repairs and create a timeline for restoration efforts. We suggest working with one of the many great restoration companies in the Fort Wayne area.
6. Seek Community Support and Resources: Tap into local resources and community support networks. Seek guidance from disaster relief organizations, support groups, or government agencies offering assistance for flood-affected individuals. Prioritize your mental and emotional well being during this time.
7. Find Immediate Shelter: Secure temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Look for local shelters, temporary rentals, or accommodations provided by relief organizations to ensure a safe living environment. This should be included as coverage under your insurance policy. Contact your insurance agent with any questions. If you’re in Northeast Indiana, contact Fortified Homes to find out if fully furnished housing is the right fit for you during this phase.
At Fortified Homes, we are firm believers that having a strong support system can make all the difference and we would love to join hands with you as you navigate these challenges. In the midst of chaos, prioritize community and self-care. It may seem counterintuitive, but taking care of yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically will give you the strength and resilience to navigate the challenges ahead. Remember, the storm will pass, and brighter days will come. Keep faith, stay strong, and trust that you have the power to rebuild and rise above the devastation.
